The dark side? Fun in the workplace and unwanted sexual attention
ISSN: 0142-5455
Article publication date: 3 September 2019
Issue publication date: 16 September 2019
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine whether fun in the workplace inadvertently leads to greater incidences of unwanted sexual attention. Specifically, this research examined the relationship between three dimensions of fun and unwanted sexual attention – fun activities, coworker socializing and manager support for fun.
Design/methodology/approach
Multiple regression was used to analyze survey data from three Qualtrics business panels.
Findings
Fun activities were related to greater incidences of unwanted sexual attention, while manager support for fun was related to fewer instances. With respect to fun activities, mandatory attendance and holding the activities on nights and weekends were associated with further increased unwanted sexual attention. The presence of non-employees during activities was associated with fewer incidences.
Research limitations/implications
The data on fun in the workplace and unwanted sexual attention were obtained at one point in time. Future research would be valuable that obtains data collected at multiple points in time to more fully substantiate cause-and-effect relationships.
Practical implications
Employers may seek to foster a climate in which managers encourage employees to have fun on the job as well as one that explicitly focuses on preventing sexual harassment. Curbing unwanted sexual attention during fun activities may be facilitated by involving non-employees, refraining from holding activities at night and on weekends and keeping employee participation voluntary.
Originality/value
From the perspective of fun in the workplace, this research has demonstrated fun activities may have unintended, adverse consequences. From the perspective of sexual harassment, this research has identified antecedents not typically be considered to be contributing factors of unwanted sexual attention.
Keywords
Citation
Tews, M.J., Stafford, K. and Jolly, P.M. (2019), "The dark side? Fun in the workplace and unwanted sexual attention", Employee Relations, Vol. 41 No. 6, pp. 1162-1182. https://doi.org/10.1108/ER-06-2018-0165
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited